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 08.01.2025

Keeping the Guinovart Spirit alive

A few days ago, Dr Joan Guinovart, founder and first director of IRB Barcelona, passed away.

His way of doing things set a style and helped to achieve the scientific excellence that is the mark of the institute today. In the early 2000s, it seemed utopian for Catalonia to have world-class research, but the work of visionaries such as Joan Guinovart made it possible to put Catalan research centres on the current scientific map.

The ultimate goal of biomedical research is to improve people’s health and quality of life. However, advances in knowledge and technology are accompanied by major challenges that must be faced and overcome. The environmental footprint of laboratory activities and the growing need for computing resources are issues that need to be managed in innovative ways to decarbonise science and ensure its economic and environmental sustainability. In addition, progress in improving the working and social conditions of research staff is essential. It is also necessary to continue efforts to educate and inform society, as well as to promote scientific vocations among young people, so essential for the future.

A new year begins, a time for planning and setting ambitious goals. The spirit of Dr Guinovart reminds us that, to go far, there are no shortcuts: results are achieved through perseverance, creativity and fostering partnerships.

Happy 2025!